Overview:
Our project TOMPA, is a transformative initiative addressing the critical issue of food waste in Nigeria, specifically focusing on surplus tomatoes. In a country where 45% of the annual tomato harvest goes to waste due to inadequate storage and transportation, TOMPA endeavors to convert these surplus tomatoes into a sustainable, powdered form. This innovative approach not only extends the shelf life of tomatoes but also provides a year-round solution to the challenges faced by farmers and consumers alike.

Objectives:
Reduce Food Waste: TOMPA aims to significantly reduce the staggering 800,000 metric tons of tomatoes wasted annually by converting surplus produce into a usable and storable powdered form.
Support Farmers: By addressing the issues of inadequate storage and transportation, we strive to alleviate financial losses faced by farmers, particularly those in vulnerable communities like Bomo, where insecurity compounds agricultural challenges.
Create Sustainable Products: Through natural processes, TOMPA produces a variety of sustainable tomato-based products, including Tompa pepper, Tompa Jollof, and Tompa classic, free from chemical additives, ensuring both environmental and consumer well-being.
Extend Shelf Life: TOMPA's innovative methods extend the shelf life of tomatoes to nine months, contributing to a more stable and consistent supply of tomatoes for consumers and reducing overall food waste in the process.

Implementation:
Community Engagement: We actively engaged with local communities, conducting needs assessments and market research to tailor the approach of Tompa to address the unique challenges and preferences of each region.
Secured Funding: The project secured non-equity funding of 400,000 Naira from Act Foundation, facilitating the expansion of production capacity, acquisition of a larger dehydrator, and the introduction of eco-friendly packaging materials.
Market Presence: We have established a solid presence in the market, collaborating with restaurants and hotels in Zaria, and we plan to expand our reach to additional cities, ensuring that the impact of Tompa extends beyond a single community.
Environmental Considerations: The project prioritizes environmental sustainability by minimizing its carbon footprint, reducing CO2 emissions associated with tomato waste, and adopting eco-friendly packaging for its products.

Outcomes:
Positive Impact on Farmers: TOMPA has contributed to the financial well-being of farmers in regions facing agricultural challenges, by reducing losses due to surplus tomato waste.

Local Economic Growth: By creating sustainable products and fostering collaborations with local businesses, TOMPA contributes to economic growth in communities, creating employment opportunities and supporting local markets.

Consumer Accessibility: TOMPA's products offer consumers a convenient and long-lasting solution for incorporating tomatoes into their meals, addressing the demand for fresh produce throughout the year.

Environmental Conservation: Through its reduction of food waste and associated CO2 emissions, TOMPA plays a role in environmental conservation, aligning with global efforts toward sustainable practices.